An amphibious raid by the Allies on Dieppe, Normandy, in World War II. Its aim was to destroy the German port, airfield, and radar installations and to gain experience in amphibious operations. Some 1000 British commando and 5000 Canadian infantry troops were involved. There was considerable confusion as landing-craft approached the two landing beaches, where they met heavy fire. The assault was a failure and the order to withdraw was given. Not only were over two-thirds of the troops lost, but German shore guns sank one destroyer and 33 landing-craft, and shot down 106 aircraft. Although in itself a disaster, the raid taught many lessons for later landings in North Africa and Italy, and the Normandy Campaign of June 1944—not least the need for careful planning.